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Scarce Swallowtail Butterfly (Iphiclides podalirius L.)Having been caught in the blast from a three inch shell in 1917, this Scarce Swallowtail butterfly was picked up half-dead by Colonel JA Graham, a butterfly collector. By luck it remained intact during further First World War action, and ironically the damage to its wings and body are more recent. It was caused by an attack of carpet beetles before it arrived at Liverpool Museum. Infestations of these beetles, the larvae of which feed on dead insects as well as other animal matter, can be extremely destructive to collections, almost reducing them to dust if left untreated. Although this butterfly is of limited scientific value (it is quite common across Europe) it is a tribute to entomologists who manage to maintain their interest under extreme stress. This specimen is not on display but other butterflies can be seen at World Museum Liverpool. |